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Mazda adds some magic to 5's

Mazda has improved on its popular 5 model with its first-generation compact multi-activity vehicle (C-MAV) set to hit show showrooms across South Africa.

Building on the current generation's popularity, the new model sees new design tweaks, safety improvements and touch-sensors on its sliding doors.

The new Mazda5 sports the Japanese automaker's new five-point front grille. The nose has been changed to feature flowing lines connecting in centre along with curved lines that form the mesh pattern adopted for the new grille.

The new front end contributes to aerodynamic performance that is unusually good for a C-MAV. A new front lip spoiler, a flat engine undercover and front tyre deflectors work together to channel air under the vehicle and reduce fuel consumption.

The design of the vehicle has also been optimised to improve the lift balance at the front and back and help to reduce the drag coefficient to only 0.30, one of the lowest in the its segment.

The cabin  the centre panel have chromed plating decoration and silver-rimmed control knobs that create a look of quality and emphasise the stylish design of the new Mazda5’s cabin which has inherited the previous packaging concept - three rows of seats.

SAFETY: A touch sensor has been added to the sliding doors to improve safety

The new model is 80mm longer than the current Mazda5, at 4585mm, with a wheelbase of 2750mm and an overall width of 1750mm. It's the same height at 1615mm.

Engine

Power is provided by a two-litre engine producing 106kW at 6500rpm and peak torque of 180Nm at 4500rpm. It drives through a six-speed manual transmission it returns a claimed fuel consumption of 8.2 litres/100km.

Suspension has been carried over from the previous model but the new Mazda5 will be the first model from the Japanese brand to feature its brake override system.

Safety

Improving on the previous generation’s safety features, the Japanese automaker has evolved its Mazda Geometric Motion Absorption (MAGMA) system. These improvements include a new bodyshell with strong Triple-H structures in the floor, sides and roof.

The new electric sliding doors have improved safety in the form of a touch-sensor strip that runs the length of the door. If enough force is applied to the strip to cause it to deform, the door stops instantly, reverses direction and returns to the open position.

Mazda offers 15 000km service intervals on the Mazda5, an impressive four-year or 120 000km fully comprehensive  warranty and a five-year or 90 000km service plan. A three-year roadside assistance plan comes standard, too.

Prices (including VAT and emissions tax)
Mazda5 2.0 Original - R249 000                                        
Mazda5 2.0 Active - R256 000
Mazda5 2.0 Individual - R285 000


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